Porcelain veneers are an investment in both your smile and your confidence. Whether you have temporary veneers while waiting for your permanent set or you have just completed the process, what you eat and drink can affect how long they last and how good they look. Making small changes to your diet can help protect your veneers and keep your smile looking its best for years to come.
Be Gentle with Hard and Crunchy Foods
Veneers are durable, but they are not indestructible. Hard foods like ice, nuts, hard candy, or raw carrots can chip or crack your veneers—especially if you bite down with too much force. If you love crunchy snacks, consider cutting them into smaller pieces and chewing them with your back teeth to reduce the risk of damage.
Avoid Chewing on Non-Food Items
Chewing on pens, fingernails, or other objects is a common habit that can quickly wear down or damage veneers. Being mindful of these habits—and replacing them with healthier alternatives like squeezing a stress ball—can help protect your investment.
Watch Out for Staining Foods and Drinks
While porcelain veneers resist stains better than natural teeth, the bonding material used to secure them can still discolor over time. Dark-colored beverages such as coffee, tea, red wine, and cola, as well as foods like berries and tomato sauce, can contribute to staining. Limiting these items or rinsing your mouth with water after consuming them can help preserve the bright, uniform color of your veneers.
Go Easy on Sticky and Chewy Foods
Caramel, taffy, and other sticky treats can pull on veneers and place stress on the bonding adhesive. These foods can also make it harder to maintain good oral hygiene by leaving behind residue that encourages plaque buildup. Choosing softer, less sticky snacks will make it easier to keep your veneers and gums healthy.
Maintain a Tooth-Friendly Diet
A balanced diet that supports oral health will also support the longevity of your veneers. Include plenty of calcium-rich foods like dairy, leafy greens, and almonds to keep the natural tooth structure underneath your veneers strong. Crunchy fruits and vegetables, like apples and celery, can help clean your teeth naturally—just cut them into bite-sized pieces to reduce pressure on the veneers.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking water throughout the day helps wash away food particles and keeps your mouth’s pH balanced. This simple habit reduces the risk of plaque buildup around the edges of your veneers, which is key to maintaining both their appearance and the health of the teeth underneath.
By making mindful choices about what you eat and drink, you can extend the life of your veneers and keep your smile healthy and beautiful.
About the Practice
Dr. Parét and Dr. Thaleia of Mind Your Mouth provide custom porcelain veneer treatments designed to enhance both the appearance and function of your smile. We combine artistry with advanced dental techniques to ensure natural-looking, long-lasting results. From preparation to aftercare, our team offers guidance on maintaining your veneers so you can enjoy your confident smile for years to come.
Call us at (321) 253-3136 or request an appointment online.